Artist's rendering of the proposed Menominee Nation off-reservation casino. Image from Casino Kenosha
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) said he's still working on a decision for the Menominee Nation off-reservation casino. Walker acknowledged that the $810 million casino in Kenosha could result in a drop in revenues for other tribal casinos. But he told WISN that he's trying to find a solution that will benefit everyone. The Bureau of Indian Affairs approved the casino under the two-part determination provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The law gives Walker veto authority over the project. Walker originally said he would make a speedy decision due to opposition from other tribes. The Forest County Potawatomi Community, whose off-reservation casino is about 40 miles from Kenosha, and the Ho-Chunk Nation, whose leaders say Kenosha is their aboriginal territory, oppose the project. But he later asked the BIA for an extension in order to consider economic, employment and other issues. He now has until February 2015 to make a decision. Former state Sen. Van Wanggaard (R), who is running to regain his seat, believes Walker will eventually approve the project. He said he spoke to the governor last week. "His response was: 'If I would have said no, I would have said no already. I am working to say yes,'" Wanggaard told WISN. Get the Story:
Wanggaard expects casino approval (WISN 7/14)
Gov. Walker defends costs of security (WISN 7/14) Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
Press Release | Fact Sheet: Menominee Nation Decision | Section 20 Determination: Menominee Nation Off-Reservation Casino Related Stories:
Menominee Nation outlines schedule for off-reservation casino (05/27)
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